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[Jump to Content](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#main-content) [](http://ph.lacounty.gov/) Translate Search Search A-Z Index - [A](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=a) - [B](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=b) - [C](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=c) - [D](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=d) - [E](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=e) - [F](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=f) - [G](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=g) - [H](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=h) - [I](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=i) - [J](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/AtoZTopics/AtoZpubDisplayAll.cfm?alpha=j) - 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[For Healthcare Providers & Labs](http://ph.lacounty.gov/clinicians/report/) - [COVID-19 and Acute Respiratory Illness Reporting for Multiple Sectors](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/diseases/covid/reporting/index.htm) - [Report a Foodborne Illness](https://redcap.link/foodcomplaint) - [Diseases & Conditions](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/Diseases.htm) - [Toolkits](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm) - Community Settings - [Schools & Childcare](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/communitysettings/schools/index.htm) - [Community Care Facilities](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/communitysettings/communitycarefacilities/index.htm) - [Travel-Associated Diseases](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/travel/index.htm) - Healthcare Settings - [Healthcare Outreach Unit](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/HOU/index.htm) - [Outpatient Dialysis Centers](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/OutpatientDialysis/index.htm) - [Skilled Nursing Facilities](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/SNF.htm) - [Additional DPH Programs](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm) - [Environmental Health](http://ph.lacounty.gov/eh) - [Division of HIV and STD Programs](http://ph.lacounty.gov/dhsp/) - [Tuberculosis Control Program](http://ph.lacounty.gov/tb/index.htm) - [Vaccine Preventable Diseases Control Program](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/index.htm) - [Full List of DPH Programs](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/unitinfo/unitdirlist.cfm?ou=ph)  [Immunizations](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#immunizations) [Symptoms](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#symptoms) [When Sick](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#what_if_sick) [Reducing Risk](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#reduce_risk_resp_illness) [When to Seek Care](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#seek_med_advice) [Long COVID](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#long-covid) [Provider Resources](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#for-providers) *See LA County's current [Health Officer Orders](http://ph.lacounty.gov/media/health-officer-order.htm)* COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are common respiratory diseases with cold-like symptoms. They usually spread in the fall and winter, although you can get sick with a respiratory virus any time of year. Most people will recover on their own without complications, but some people are at higher risk of getting very sick. Monitor respiratory viral disease trends in LA County by visiting [RespWatch](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respwatch/index.htm). The best defense against severe illness is to stay up to date with all recommended vaccines. All people six months or older should get vaccinated against [influenza](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/flu/index.htm). All people who are eligible for the [COVID-19 vaccine](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/COVID19/index.htm) are encouraged to get it. If you would like to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and are unsure if you're eligible under the new FDA approval, consult with your medical provider or pharmacist. Some people may also be eligible for [RSV immunizations](http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/ip/RSV/index.htm). For more information about vaccinations for you and your family, please see [Los Angeles County Department of Public Health's Vaccine Page](http://ph.lacounty.gov/vaccines/). Effective treatments are available for COVID-19 and flu. Other [preventive actions](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/Communications-Toolkits/Respiratory-Virus-Prevention.aspx) to limit the spread of respiratory virus infections include: **Stay home if sick** **[Improve indoor ventilation](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/OHB/Pages/IndoorAirQualityResources.aspx)** **Consider wearing a [high quality mask](https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ppe/php/community-respirators-masks/) indoors, especially if you are in crowded areas or sick** **Cover your cough** **Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds** **Clean and disinfect surfaces in home to remove/kill germs** # Immunizations: ### **Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent severe illness.** For the most current information on vaccination in LA County, visit our program pages for [Influenza](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/flu/index.htm), [RSV](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/RSV/index.htm), and [COVID-19](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/COVID19/index.htm). # Symptoms: COVID-19, flu, and RSV are some of the diseases caused by viruses that have very similar symptoms. Illness can be mild to severe, and some people may have no symptoms. Those who do get sick may experience any of the following:  Fever/chills  Cough  Sore throat  Runny nose or stuffy nose  Difficulty Breathing  Body aches Other symptoms are possible with each of these infections. RSV is more likely to cause bronchiolitis (inflammation of small airways in the lungs) in children than other viruses. Although certain symptoms can be more common with one virus than another, it is hard to tell which infection someone has based on symptoms alone. Some people may experience symptoms for weeks, which could be long COVID-19 or long flu. Anyone who has difficulty breathing or symptoms that worsen should [seek immediate medical care](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#seek_emergency_care). For more information on disease-specific symptoms, see [COVID-19](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/signs-symptoms/), [flu](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/signs-symptoms/), [RSV](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/%20https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/symptoms/). # What to do if sick: Stay home and away from others until you have been fever-free without the use of fever reducing medication for 24 hours, and other symptoms are improving. Wear a well-fitting mask in shared spaces and around others. **Get tested** for COVID-19. Testing helps make sure you get the right treatment and don't spread germs to others. Talk to your doctor about testing for COVID-19 and other respiratory pathogens including flu, especially if you are at high risk for severe illness. *Note: People who live in LA County who are age 65+ or unable to leave home can [request](https://forms.testandgo.com/form/251175071932151) two free tests. The tests are shipped within 5 business days.* If you test positive, follow [COVID-19 Community Guidelines](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/diseases/covid/communityguidelines/index.htm "COVID-19 guidance"). Treatment is available for [COVID-19](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/treatment/) and [influenza](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/index.html)! Talk to your healthcare provider about possible treatment or call [2-1-1](https://211la.org/resources/subcategory/healthcare) to find a nearby provider, especially if your symptoms are not getting better after several days or if you have a high risk health condition. Know [when to seek emergency medical care](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#seek_med_advice). [Wash hands frequently](http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/docs/HandwashingSteps.pdf) with warm water, soap, and scrub for 20 seconds. [Cover mouth and nose](http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/docs/CoverCough.pdf) when coughing and sneezing. # Reducing Risk of Respiratory Illness: **There are certain places where respiratory viruses spread more easily:** - **Closed spaces** with poor air flow - **Crowded places** - **Close contact settings** especially where people close by are talking, singing, coughing, shouting, sneezing, or breathing heavily **To protect yourself and others from respiratory illness, follow these best practices:** **Stay up to date with [COVID-19](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/COVID19/index.htm) and [flu](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/flu/index.htm) vaccines.** **Stay home when sick**. If you have any symptoms of respiratory illness, stay away from others until you feel better. **[Test for COVID-19](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Testing.aspx) if:** - Get tested for COVID-19 if you are sick with cough, cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms. - Consider testing for flu and other respiratory pathogens in addition to COVID-19, especially if you are at high risk of severe illness and eligible for antiviral treatment - Asymptomatic testing after exposure to someone with COVID-19 is no longer recommended for most people. Those at high risk of serious illness may consider testing 3-5 days after exposure. Residents of Skilled Nursing Facilities and Healthcare workers should follow guidance for those settings ([CDPH Healthcare worker guidance](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/LCP/Pages/AFL-25-01.aspx); [CDPH SNF guidance](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHCQ/HAI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/CA_RecsPrevControl_RespVirus_SNFs.pdf)) **If you test positive for COVID-19,** follow [Community Guidelines](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/diseases/covid/communityguidelines/index.htm). **Ask about medicine to treat flu or COVID-19 as soon as you start feeling sick.** Treatment can prevent you from getting very sick but should be started soon after your symptoms begin. Talk to your doctor or call the Public Health Call Center at 1-833-540-0473. **Wear a mask that fits and filters well.** **Improve ventilation (air flow).** Open windows and doors, use fans and portable air cleaners, run heating and air, and upgrade filters. When possible, choose outdoor spaces for group activities. For more information, visit the CDC’s webpage [Improving Ventilation in Your Home](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/Improving-Ventilation-Home.html). **Practice good everyday hygiene**, like [washing your hands](https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/index.html) and [covering your coughs and sneezes](https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/coughing-and-sneezing.html). Washing your hands is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading germs that cause respiratory illnesses and diarrhea. For more information, visit the CDC's webpage [How to Protect Yourself and Others](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/prevention/). # when to seek medical care: For treatments, talk to your healthcare provider. Call [2-1-1](https://211la.org/resources/subcategory/healthcare) to find a nearby provider if it is not an emergency and you do not have a provider. People with high-risk health conditions should seek medical attention even with mild symptoms. In general, most minor respiratory virus infections improve with simple steps (getting plenty of rest, drinking enough fluids, eating well). Symptoms such as fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never give aspirin to children.) Antibiotics do not help with diseases caused by viruses. Antiviral medications are available for certain individuals with flu and COVID-19. These medications should be started soon as symptoms begin. Currently there are no specific antiviral medications for RSV. If symptoms do not get better after a week, or if your symptoms get worse after starting to improve, talk to a healthcare provider or go to urgent care. If symptoms [get worse and are urgent](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm#seek_emergency_care), seek emergency medical care. influenza rsv COVID-19  Many adults and some children [qualify for treatment](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/treatment/) if they have symptoms of COVID-19 AND either they test positive for COVID-19 OR a doctor recommends treatment. Medication should be started within 5 days of first symptoms. If you don’t have a provider, call the Public Health InfoLine at (833) 540-0473, available 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  [Treatment for RSV](https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/symptoms/#:~:text=experiencing%20worsening%20symptoms.-,Care,-Antiviral%20medication%20is) focuses on relieving symptoms. Fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never give aspirin to children.) Dehydration can be prevented by drinking enough fluids. Unlike influenza and COVID-19, there aren’t any antiviral medications approved for treating an infection with RSV. Young children and older individuals are at increased risk of severe disease. In severe cases, the airways that lead to the lungs may become inflamed and cause breathing problems. RSV usually does not cause hospitalization in healthy adults but can lead to bronchiolitis and [pneumonia in infants](https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/infants-young-children/index.html#:~:text=with%20RSV%20infection.-,Severe%20RSV,-Most%20of%20the), [older adult](https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/older-adults/index.html#:~:text=other%20respiratory%20viruses.-,Severe%20RSV,-When%20an%20adult) and adults with high risk conditions.  [Influenza antiviral medications](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/antiviral-drugs.html) are available for adults and children by prescription . Antiviral medication works best if started within 2 days of first symptoms, but may still be taken later especially if you are high risk or have severe illness. More information on Flu antiviral medication, see CDC website: # When to Seek Emergency Medical Care:  Difficulty Breathing  Pressure or Pain in Chest  Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds\*  Confused or Hard to Wake or Stay Awake  Other Serious Symptoms It is very rare, but some children who have been previously infected with COVID-19 develop a serious COVID complication called Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children [(MIS-C)](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/CDPH%20Document%20Library/Toolkits/MIS-C/Signs-of-MIS-C.pdf). If a child has a persistent fever, head or neck pain, stomach pain, rash, bloodshot eyes, or chest tightness consult with your medical provider. Get your child emergency care for any of these MIS-C symptoms: trouble breathing, chest pain, new confusion, inability to wake/stay awake, or pale, gray or blue skin, lips or nails. # Long COVID Most people recover from COVID-19 within a few days to weeks. However, some people may continue to have symptoms or develop new symptoms weeks or months later, a condition known as **Long COVID** or **Post-COVID Conditions**. Symptoms vary but can include fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, or difficulty thinking clearly ("brain fog"). Even people who had mild illness can develop Long COVID. There is no single test for Long COVID. Health care providers base diagnosis on symptoms and history of infection. Staying up to date with [COVID-19 vaccines](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ip/diseases/COVID19/index.htm) can lower the risk of developing Long COVID. For more information, visit: - [CDC: Long COVID Basics](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/long-term-effects/index.html) - [CDPH: Post-COVID Conditions](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Post-COVID.aspx). # Resources for LA County Medical Providers [](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/docs/respiratory/flu-tx-algorithm-jan26.pdf) ##### CDPH Treatment Algorithm for High Risk Patients [](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/Immunization/IMM-1481.pdf) ##### West Coast Health Alliance Respiratory Virus Vaccine Recommendations for the 2025-2026 Respiratory Virus Season - [Home]() - [Public Health](http://ph.lacounty.gov/) - [LA County](http://lacounty.gov/) - [Careers](http://hr.lacounty.gov/) - [DPH Programs](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/unitinfo/unitdirlist.cfm?ou=ph) - [Email: Webmaster](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ContactUs.htm) - [Notice of Privacy Practices](http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/respiratory.htm) - [English](http://ph.lacounty.gov/docs/NoticeofPrivacy-ENG.pdf) - [Spanish](http://ph.lacounty.gov/docs/NoticeofPrivacy-SPN.pdf) - [Website Privacy Policy](https://lacounty.gov/privacy-policy/) - [Accessibility](http://ph.lacounty.gov/ADA.htm) - [Disclaimer](http://ph.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/adpolicy.htm) - [Employee]() - [Admin Use](https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/phcommon/login.cfm?unit=ph&prog=ph&ou=ph) - [Outlook E-mail](https://outlook.office365.com/owa/) - [DPH Intranet (At Work)](http://intranet.ph.lacounty.gov/ph/ "Accessible from Work Only") Public Health has made reasonable efforts to provide accurate translation. However, no computerized translation is perfect and is not intended to replace traditional translation methods. If questions arise concerning the accuracy of the information, please refer to the English edition of the website, which is the official version.  ***Enriching lives through effective and caring services***

 Many adults and some children [qualify for treatment](https://www.cdc.gov/covid/treatment/) if they have symptoms of COVID-19 AND either they test positive for COVID-19 OR a doctor recommends treatment. Medication should be started within 5 days of first symptoms. If you don’t have a provider, call the Public Health InfoLine at (833) 540-0473, available 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  [Treatment for RSV](https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/symptoms/#:~:text=experiencing%20worsening%20symptoms.-,Care,-Antiviral%20medication%20is) focuses on relieving symptoms. Fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never give aspirin to children.) Dehydration can be prevented by drinking enough fluids. Unlike influenza and COVID-19, there aren’t any antiviral medications approved for treating an infection with RSV. Young children and older individuals are at increased risk of severe disease. In severe cases, the airways that lead to the lungs may become inflamed and cause breathing problems. RSV usually does not cause hospitalization in healthy adults but can lead to bronchiolitis and [pneumonia in infants](https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/infants-young-children/index.html#:~:text=with%20RSV%20infection.-,Severe%20RSV,-Most%20of%20the), [older adult](https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/older-adults/index.html#:~:text=other%20respiratory%20viruses.-,Severe%20RSV,-When%20an%20adult) and adults with high risk conditions.  [Influenza antiviral medications](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/antiviral-drugs.html) are available for adults and children by prescription . Antiviral medication works best if started within 2 days of first symptoms, but may still be taken later especially if you are high risk or have severe illness. More information on Flu antiviral medication, see CDC website: